World Cruise 2016

No doubt there are other world cruises that can take you to places of wonder or shrouded in mystery. Exotic destinations like Easter Island with its enigmatic Moai, or the hauntingly beautiful city of Petra. But it's what you experience once you arrive that is the true barometer of a great journey. The insider access, small-group excursions and private arrangements. The lectures and cultural events that provide a more profound understanding of a land and its people. This is the true joy of exploring the world with Silversea. Highly personalised travel combined with an uncompromising commitment to service. Authentic, experiential … and uniquely our own.

World Cruise 2016

Discover lands of wonder or shrouded in mystery on this global circumnavigation with a luxury cruise. Places like Easter Island with its enigmatic Moai, haunting Petra, and isolated Pitcairn Island, home of the Bounty mutineers.

With numerous late-night and overnight calls, and even more connections to re-join the ship, you’ll have ample time to explore a breathtaking succession of highlights including Ayer’s Rock, Angkor Wat, the bejewelled temples of Burma and biblical treasures of the Holy Land on this world cruise.

For a fitting finale, our World Odyssey ends in Venice, a proud reflection of our Italian heritage and the inspiration for our own Venetian Society, Silversea’s loyalty club.

Passage to Ancient Civilisations — Panama Canal & Peru

Traditional markets display artisan crafts in the volcanic highlands of Ecuador. Mud bricked temples of pre-Columbian cultures lie buried among the dramatic landscapes of the Altiplano.

Ancient Navigators of the South Pacific

Follow in the wake of Thor Heyerdahl from Peru to Easter Island, standing before the giant moai and experiencing their powerful aura on the most isolated island in the world. Study the giant stone faces and ancient petroglyphs that hold the secrets of ancient Polynesians.

Cruising the South China Sea

Along the Spice Route

Golden beaches, bejewelled pagodas and Mughal marvels light our way as we sail through the Strait of Malacca to Penang and Phuket, glamorous resorts of Asia’s growing moneyed class, and Kuala Lumpur with its dazzling skyline.

Along the Frankincense Trail

VENETIAN WORLD ODYSSEY 2016

From the “Lost City” of Machu Picchu to the newly emerging nation of Myanmar (formerly Burma), Venetian World Odyssey reveals the mysteries and marvels of some of the world’s most intriguing destinations. You’ll visit 51 ports in 115 days. And you can explore each one intimately thanks to Silversea’s celebrated shore program. Small-group tours, multi-day land extensions and private arrangements provide a more immersive experience of the local flavours and cultures.

Click here to read the 2015 World Cruise Blog by Jon Fleming and follow along as we experience the extraordinary.

Arguably the most romantic of temples built to express love and loss is the beautiful Taj Mahal. Let us jet you off in chartered Read more

Arguably the most romantic of temples built to express love and loss is the beautiful Taj Mahal. Let us jet you off in chartered comfort for just the day. Tour this amazing edifice of white marble and then join us for lunch. Refreshed, we jet back to the waiting Silver Whisper for a special welcome home.

Many say Venice seen in the twilight is at its most magnificent and mysterious. We embark our elegant water taxis in the early Read more

Many say Venice seen in the twilight is at its most magnificent and mysterious. We embark our elegant water taxis in the early evening for a journey down the famed Grand Canal, our destination a Palazzo complete with all the trappings of history and regalia this city has to offer. All we ask is that masks and elegant dress are mandatory – leave the rest to us, as we create an unforgettable evening as you approach the twilight of your world cruise.

Sydney Harbour has arguably two of the world most iconic structures – the glistening sails of the opera house roof and the Read more

Sydney Harbour has arguably two of the world most iconic structures – the glistening sails of the opera house roof and the famed arch of the mighty bridge. Today we have exclusive use of a private island with spectacular views of both coupled with the Sydney skyline. A white glove lunch will be served with a local menu of casual Australian fare and accompanied by wines of the Hunter Valley. Replete with Aussie spirit, return to the Silver Whisper.

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Itinerary

Departing from Fort Lauderdale, Silver Whisper will sail around the world in 115 days, transiting the Panama Canal to South America, the South Pacific, New Zealand, Australia, Southeast Asia, India and Arabia. Revel in the paradise isles of Polynesia. Discover the bejewelled pagodas of Bagan. Gaze amazed at ancient wonders like Petra and Luxor that straddle the shores of the Red Sea.

Date:Day:Port:Arrive:Depart:

Jan 05 2016TuesdayFort Lauderdale, Florida, United States of America6:00 PMSHOW+

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States of America

In the 1960s Fort Lauderdale's beachfront was lined with T-shirt shops interspersed with quickie-food outlets, and downtown consisted of a lone office tower, some dilapidated government buildings, and motley other structures waiting to be razed. Today the beach is home to upscale shops and restaurants, while downtown has exploded with new office and luxury residential development. The entertainment and shopping areas-Las Olas Boulevard, Las Olas Riverfront, and Himmarshee Village-are thriving. And Port Everglades is giving Miami a run for its money in passenger cruising, with a dozen cruise-ship terminals, including the world's largest, hosting more than 20 cruise ships with some 3,000 departures annually.

Along with the rest of Florida, Key West-the southernmost city in the continental United States-became part of American territory in 1821. In the late 19th century it was Florida's wealthiest city per capita. The locals made their fortunes from "wrecking"-rescuing people and salvaging cargo from ships that foundered on nearby reefs. Cigar making, fishing, shrimping, and sponge gathering also became important industries. Locally dubbed the "Conch Republic," Key West today makes for a unique port of call. A genuinely American town, it nevertheless exudes the relaxed atmosphere and pace of a typical Caribbean island.

Jan 07 2016ThursdayDay at Sea

Key West, Florida, United States of America

Along with the rest of Florida, Key West-the southernmost city in the continental United States-became part of American territory in 1821. In the late 19th century it was Florida's wealthiest city per capita. The locals made their fortunes from "wrecking"-rescuing people and salvaging cargo from ships that foundered on nearby reefs. Cigar making, fishing, shrimping, and sponge gathering also became important industries. Locally dubbed the "Conch Republic," Key West today makes for a unique port of call. A genuinely American town, it nevertheless exudes the relaxed atmosphere and pace of a typical Caribbean island.

Jan 08 2016FridayDay at Sea

Key West, Florida, United States of America

Along with the rest of Florida, Key West-the southernmost city in the continental United States-became part of American territory in 1821. In the late 19th century it was Florida's wealthiest city per capita. The locals made their fortunes from "wrecking"-rescuing people and salvaging cargo from ships that foundered on nearby reefs. Cigar making, fishing, shrimping, and sponge gathering also became important industries. Locally dubbed the "Conch Republic," Key West today makes for a unique port of call. A genuinely American town, it nevertheless exudes the relaxed atmosphere and pace of a typical Caribbean island.

Jan 09 2016SaturdayPuerto Limón, Costa Rica8:00 AM4:00 PMSHOW+

Puerto Limón, Costa Rica

Christopher Columbus became Costa Rica's first tourist when he landed on this stretch of coast in 1502 during his fourth and final voyage to the New World. Expecting to find vast mineral wealth, he named the region Costa Rica ("rich coast"). Imagine the Spaniards' surprise eventually to find there was none. Save for a brief skirmish some six decades ago, the country did prove itself rich in a long tradition of peace and democracy. No other country in Latin America can make that claim. Costa Rica is also abundantly rich in natural beauty, managing to pack beaches, volcanoes, rain forests, and diverse animal life into an area the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined.

Jan 10 2016SundayPanama Canal Transit6:00 AM7:00 PMSHOW+

The unique location of the Panama Canal at Central America's narrowest point between the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean provided the idea for creating a passageway between these two bodies of water. In 1880, the French made the first attempt to build a canal, but disease and financial problems defeated them. In 1903, Panama and the United States signed a treaty by which the United States agreed to take over the project. The following year, the U.S. purchased the rights and properties from the French Canal Company and construction began. The project took ten years to complete at a cost of about $387 million.

Jan 11 2016MondayDay at Sea

The unique location of the Panama Canal at Central America's narrowest point between the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean provided the idea for creating a passageway between these two bodies of water. In 1880, the French made the first attempt to build a canal, but disease and financial problems defeated them. In 1903, Panama and the United States signed a treaty by which the United States agreed to take over the project. The following year, the U.S. purchased the rights and properties from the French Canal Company and construction began. The project took ten years to complete at a cost of about $387 million.

Jan 12 2016TuesdayManta, Ecuador9:00 AM7:00 PMSHOW+

Manta, Ecuador

Manta is Ecuador's major port along the central coast. Colorful fishing villages, unspoiled beaches and unusual tropical dry forest make this an important tourist destination and the starting point for day trips. The nearby town of Montecristi was founded in the early 1600s. With its colonial architecture, this small town is best known for its weaving wickerwork, and as the birthplace of the "Panama hat".

Jan 13 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Manta, Ecuador

Manta is Ecuador's major port along the central coast. Colorful fishing villages, unspoiled beaches and unusual tropical dry forest make this an important tourist destination and the starting point for day trips. The nearby town of Montecristi was founded in the early 1600s. With its colonial architecture, this small town is best known for its weaving wickerwork, and as the birthplace of the "Panama hat".

Jan 14 2016ThursdaySalaverry, Peru8:00 AM2:00 PMSHOW+

Salaverry, Peru

Located about nine hours north of Lima, Trujillo was founded in 1534 by the Spanish conquistador Pizarro. The attractive, colonial city retains much of its original charm with elegant casonas, or mansions, lining the streets. Nearby is Chan Chan, the ancient capital of the Chimú, a local Indian tribe who came under the rule of the Incas. The area has several other Chimú sites, some dating back about 1500 years. The region is also famous as the home of the Peruvian Paso horses, as well as excellent beaches offering world-class surfing and other water sports.

Jan 15 2016FridayCallao (Lima), Peru8:00 AM

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Callao (Lima), Peru

Founded along the banks of the Rimac River by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period. The "City of Kings" has a regal history that lingers on in its sophistication, the decaying beauty of its boulevards, and the liveliness of its intellectual life. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas can still be seen today. Walk a few blocks in any direction to find graceful churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was.

Jan 16 2016SaturdayCallao (Lima), PeruSHOW+

Callao (Lima), Peru

Founded along the banks of the Rimac River by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period. The "City of Kings" has a regal history that lingers on in its sophistication, the decaying beauty of its boulevards, and the liveliness of its intellectual life. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas can still be seen today. Walk a few blocks in any direction to find graceful churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was.

Jan 16 2016SaturdayCallao (Lima), Peru10:00 PMSHOW+

Callao (Lima), Peru

Founded along the banks of the Rimac River by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period. The "City of Kings" has a regal history that lingers on in its sophistication, the decaying beauty of its boulevards, and the liveliness of its intellectual life. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas can still be seen today. Walk a few blocks in any direction to find graceful churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was.

Jan 17 2016SundayDay at Sea

Callao (Lima), Peru

Founded along the banks of the Rimac River by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period. The "City of Kings" has a regal history that lingers on in its sophistication, the decaying beauty of its boulevards, and the liveliness of its intellectual life. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas can still be seen today. Walk a few blocks in any direction to find graceful churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was.

Jan 18 2016MondayDay at Sea

Callao (Lima), Peru

Founded along the banks of the Rimac River by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period. The "City of Kings" has a regal history that lingers on in its sophistication, the decaying beauty of its boulevards, and the liveliness of its intellectual life. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas can still be seen today. Walk a few blocks in any direction to find graceful churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was.

Jan 19 2016TuesdayDay at Sea

Callao (Lima), Peru

Founded along the banks of the Rimac River by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period. The "City of Kings" has a regal history that lingers on in its sophistication, the decaying beauty of its boulevards, and the liveliness of its intellectual life. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas can still be seen today. Walk a few blocks in any direction to find graceful churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was.

Jan 20 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Callao (Lima), Peru

Founded along the banks of the Rimac River by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period. The "City of Kings" has a regal history that lingers on in its sophistication, the decaying beauty of its boulevards, and the liveliness of its intellectual life. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas can still be seen today. Walk a few blocks in any direction to find graceful churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was.

Jan 21 2016ThursdayDay at Sea

Callao (Lima), Peru

Founded along the banks of the Rimac River by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period. The "City of Kings" has a regal history that lingers on in its sophistication, the decaying beauty of its boulevards, and the liveliness of its intellectual life. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas can still be seen today. Walk a few blocks in any direction to find graceful churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was.

Jan 22 2016FridayEaster Island, Chile8:00 AM5:00 PMSHOW+

Easter Island, Chile

Welcome to the mysteries of Rapa Nui, the “Navel of the World”, more commonly known as Easter Island. Lying 2,294 miles (3,692 km) west of the Chilean mainland and 1,200 miles (1,931 km) from its nearest neighbour, Pitcairn Island, enigmatic Easter Island is the world’s most remote inhabited island, famous for its strange monolithic statues.

The first settlers arrived on the island in the 4th century, presumably by accident, from Polynesia. They remained relatively isolated over a long period, living in a hierarchically arranged society that was governed by a king. Religious rites centred on the cult of ancestors represented by monolithic stone statuary, the moai.

Jan 23 2016SaturdayDay at Sea

Easter Island, Chile

Welcome to the mysteries of Rapa Nui, the “Navel of the World”, more commonly known as Easter Island. Lying 2,294 miles (3,692 km) west of the Chilean mainland and 1,200 miles (1,931 km) from its nearest neighbour, Pitcairn Island, enigmatic Easter Island is the world’s most remote inhabited island, famous for its strange monolithic statues.

The first settlers arrived on the island in the 4th century, presumably by accident, from Polynesia. They remained relatively isolated over a long period, living in a hierarchically arranged society that was governed by a king. Religious rites centred on the cult of ancestors represented by monolithic stone statuary, the moai.

Jan 24 2016SundayDay at Sea

Easter Island, Chile

Welcome to the mysteries of Rapa Nui, the “Navel of the World”, more commonly known as Easter Island. Lying 2,294 miles (3,692 km) west of the Chilean mainland and 1,200 miles (1,931 km) from its nearest neighbour, Pitcairn Island, enigmatic Easter Island is the world’s most remote inhabited island, famous for its strange monolithic statues.

The first settlers arrived on the island in the 4th century, presumably by accident, from Polynesia. They remained relatively isolated over a long period, living in a hierarchically arranged society that was governed by a king. Religious rites centred on the cult of ancestors represented by monolithic stone statuary, the moai.

Jan 25 2016MondayAdamstown, Pitcairn Island12:00 PM6:00 PMSHOW+

Adamstown, Pitcairn Island

Pitcairn Island of “Mutiny on the Bounty” fame lies roughly mid-way between Peru and New Zealand in the Pacific Ocean. The small volcanic island was discovered in 1767 by the British and settled in 1790 by the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions.

An Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom, Pitcairn was the first Pacific island to become a British colony in 1838. It is administered under the British High Commissioner in New Zealand who is governor of Pitcairn and the neighboring Henderson, Ducie and Oeno islands.

Rugged in appearance and rising to almost 1,000 feet, the island is about one third the size of Washington, D.C.

Jan 26 2016TuesdayDay at Sea

Adamstown, Pitcairn Island

Pitcairn Island of “Mutiny on the Bounty” fame lies roughly mid-way between Peru and New Zealand in the Pacific Ocean. The small volcanic island was discovered in 1767 by the British and settled in 1790 by the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions.

An Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom, Pitcairn was the first Pacific island to become a British colony in 1838. It is administered under the British High Commissioner in New Zealand who is governor of Pitcairn and the neighboring Henderson, Ducie and Oeno islands.

Rugged in appearance and rising to almost 1,000 feet, the island is about one third the size of Washington, D.C.

Jan 27 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Adamstown, Pitcairn Island

Pitcairn Island of “Mutiny on the Bounty” fame lies roughly mid-way between Peru and New Zealand in the Pacific Ocean. The small volcanic island was discovered in 1767 by the British and settled in 1790 by the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions.

An Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom, Pitcairn was the first Pacific island to become a British colony in 1838. It is administered under the British High Commissioner in New Zealand who is governor of Pitcairn and the neighboring Henderson, Ducie and Oeno islands.

Rugged in appearance and rising to almost 1,000 feet, the island is about one third the size of Washington, D.C.

Tahiti's heart-shaped sister island Moorea is located only 9 miles (14.5 kilometres) across the Sea of the Moon from Tahiti. Although Bora Bora and Tahiti are destinations most prominently advertised, it is Moorea, the ‘Magical Island’, that is the best-kept secret of this trio of famous islands in French Polynesia. In fact, Moorea has often been likened to James Michener’s mythological island of Bali Hai, and it is easy to see why. Picture-perfect lagoons and gleaming white beaches are surrounded by jagged mountains and volcanic spires. Moorea’s six mountains include Mount Rotui, which offers spectacular views of Opunohu Bay and the island from its summit.

Jan 29 2016FridayPapeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia8:00 PM

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Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia

Formed by two ancient volcanoes and joined at the isthmus of Taravao, Tahiti is the largest island of the Society Archipelago and economic heart of French Polynesia. Ever since the famous French impressionist painter Paul Gauguin immortalized Tahitian maidens in vibrant colours on his canvasses, Tahiti has embodied a mysterious allure and still summons up the romance of the South Pacific as a tropical paradise. Rising in the centre, Mount Orohena and Mount Aorai are the island’s highest points; deep valleys radiate in all directions from these central peaks, and steep slopes drop abruptly from the high plateaus to coastal plains.

Jan 30 2016SaturdayPapeete, Tahiti, French PolynesiaSHOW+

Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia

Formed by two ancient volcanoes and joined at the isthmus of Taravao, Tahiti is the largest island of the Society Archipelago and economic heart of French Polynesia. Ever since the famous French impressionist painter Paul Gauguin immortalized Tahitian maidens in vibrant colours on his canvasses, Tahiti has embodied a mysterious allure and still summons up the romance of the South Pacific as a tropical paradise. Rising in the centre, Mount Orohena and Mount Aorai are the island’s highest points; deep valleys radiate in all directions from these central peaks, and steep slopes drop abruptly from the high plateaus to coastal plains.

Jan 30 2016SaturdayPapeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia7:00 PMSHOW+

Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia

Formed by two ancient volcanoes and joined at the isthmus of Taravao, Tahiti is the largest island of the Society Archipelago and economic heart of French Polynesia. Ever since the famous French impressionist painter Paul Gauguin immortalized Tahitian maidens in vibrant colours on his canvasses, Tahiti has embodied a mysterious allure and still summons up the romance of the South Pacific as a tropical paradise. Rising in the centre, Mount Orohena and Mount Aorai are the island’s highest points; deep valleys radiate in all directions from these central peaks, and steep slopes drop abruptly from the high plateaus to coastal plains.

Located 160 miles (257 kilometres) northwest of Tahiti, Bora Bora is the epitome of an idyllic South Pacific island. Emerald-green hills and crystalline blue lagoons highlight the spectacular beauty of this once quiet retreat, now a favourite destination for tourists, hotel entrepreneurs, and film producers. During World War II, 4,500 U.S. troops were stationed on Bora Bora. In 1977, an army of Italian filmmakers descended on the island for the filming of the movie Hurricane and most recently, the Vince Vaughn film Couples Retreat was shot here. James Michener, author of Tales of the South Pacific , called Bora Bora ‘the most beautiful island on earth’.

Feb 01 2016MondayDay at Sea

Bora Bora, Society Islands, French Polynesia

Located 160 miles (257 kilometres) northwest of Tahiti, Bora Bora is the epitome of an idyllic South Pacific island. Emerald-green hills and crystalline blue lagoons highlight the spectacular beauty of this once quiet retreat, now a favourite destination for tourists, hotel entrepreneurs, and film producers. During World War II, 4,500 U.S. troops were stationed on Bora Bora. In 1977, an army of Italian filmmakers descended on the island for the filming of the movie Hurricane and most recently, the Vince Vaughn film Couples Retreat was shot here. James Michener, author of Tales of the South Pacific , called Bora Bora ‘the most beautiful island on earth’.

Feb 02 2016TuesdayRarotonga, Cook Islands8:00 AM2:00 PMSHOW+

Rarotonga, Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are scattered like tiny jewels over a large stretch of sea between Tahiti and Samoa, lying virtually in the center of the Polynesian Triangle of the South Pacific. The first settlers arrived around the 8th century from the Society Islands, Samoa and the Marquesas, while the first Europeans made contact at the turn of the 16th century. In 1824, a Russian cartographer put the islands on the map, naming them after Captain Cook, who discovered five of the islands in the Southern Group in the 1770s. The natural beauty of Rarotonga, the principal island of the Cook archipelago, is profound and overwhelming.

Feb 03 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Rarotonga, Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are scattered like tiny jewels over a large stretch of sea between Tahiti and Samoa, lying virtually in the center of the Polynesian Triangle of the South Pacific. The first settlers arrived around the 8th century from the Society Islands, Samoa and the Marquesas, while the first Europeans made contact at the turn of the 16th century. In 1824, a Russian cartographer put the islands on the map, naming them after Captain Cook, who discovered five of the islands in the Southern Group in the 1770s. The natural beauty of Rarotonga, the principal island of the Cook archipelago, is profound and overwhelming.

Feb 04 2016ThursdayDay at Sea

Rarotonga, Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are scattered like tiny jewels over a large stretch of sea between Tahiti and Samoa, lying virtually in the center of the Polynesian Triangle of the South Pacific. The first settlers arrived around the 8th century from the Society Islands, Samoa and the Marquesas, while the first Europeans made contact at the turn of the 16th century. In 1824, a Russian cartographer put the islands on the map, naming them after Captain Cook, who discovered five of the islands in the Southern Group in the 1770s. The natural beauty of Rarotonga, the principal island of the Cook archipelago, is profound and overwhelming.

Feb 05 2016FridayDay at Sea

Rarotonga, Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are scattered like tiny jewels over a large stretch of sea between Tahiti and Samoa, lying virtually in the center of the Polynesian Triangle of the South Pacific. The first settlers arrived around the 8th century from the Society Islands, Samoa and the Marquesas, while the first Europeans made contact at the turn of the 16th century. In 1824, a Russian cartographer put the islands on the map, naming them after Captain Cook, who discovered five of the islands in the Southern Group in the 1770s. The natural beauty of Rarotonga, the principal island of the Cook archipelago, is profound and overwhelming.

Feb 06 2016SaturdayDay at Sea

Rarotonga, Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are scattered like tiny jewels over a large stretch of sea between Tahiti and Samoa, lying virtually in the center of the Polynesian Triangle of the South Pacific. The first settlers arrived around the 8th century from the Society Islands, Samoa and the Marquesas, while the first Europeans made contact at the turn of the 16th century. In 1824, a Russian cartographer put the islands on the map, naming them after Captain Cook, who discovered five of the islands in the Southern Group in the 1770s. The natural beauty of Rarotonga, the principal island of the Cook archipelago, is profound and overwhelming.

Feb 07 2016SundayTauranga, New Zealand1:00 PM7:00 PMSHOW+

Tauranga, New Zealand

The population center of the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing cities, thanks in large part to retirees and young families escaping the bustle of Auckland. Along with its neighbor, Whakatane, this seaside city claims to be one of the country's sunniest towns. Unlike most local towns, Tauranga doesn't grind to a halt in the off-season. Not only does it have the country's largest export port, but the excellent waves at neighboring Mount Maunganui always draw surfers; there's also a fun café scene.

Feb 08 2016MondayAuckland, New Zealand7:00 AM10:00 PMSHOW+

Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland's scenery is commanded by some of the city's 46 volcanic hills, their grass kept closely cropped by those fourlegged lawn mowers known as sheep. But this city of about 1.1 million is also a cosmopolitan mix of Polynesians, Asians, and Europeans. (In fact, Auckland has the world's largest single population of Pacific Islanders.) Literally topping things off is the 1,082-foot Sky Tower, dwarfing everything around it and acting as a beacon for the casino, hotel, and restaurant complex that opened early in 1996.

Feb 09 2016TuesdayBay of Islands, New Zealand8:00 AM6:00 PMSHOW+

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Steeped in legend and history, the Bay of Islands has lured explorers for centuries. Captain Cook anchored here in 1769, bestowing the simple name that captures its unpretentious charm. A spectacular landscape of black, volcanic rocks and rugged cliffs can be seen as the ship cruises into the Bay of Islands. One of the finest maritime parks in New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is home to more than 100 islands and numerous bays teeming with birds and marine life. The Bay of Islands is New Zealand's cradle of European civilisation, with many points of interest relating to both early-European and Maori settlements.

Feb 10 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Steeped in legend and history, the Bay of Islands has lured explorers for centuries. Captain Cook anchored here in 1769, bestowing the simple name that captures its unpretentious charm. A spectacular landscape of black, volcanic rocks and rugged cliffs can be seen as the ship cruises into the Bay of Islands. One of the finest maritime parks in New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is home to more than 100 islands and numerous bays teeming with birds and marine life. The Bay of Islands is New Zealand's cradle of European civilisation, with many points of interest relating to both early-European and Maori settlements.

Feb 11 2016ThursdayDay at Sea

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Steeped in legend and history, the Bay of Islands has lured explorers for centuries. Captain Cook anchored here in 1769, bestowing the simple name that captures its unpretentious charm. A spectacular landscape of black, volcanic rocks and rugged cliffs can be seen as the ship cruises into the Bay of Islands. One of the finest maritime parks in New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is home to more than 100 islands and numerous bays teeming with birds and marine life. The Bay of Islands is New Zealand's cradle of European civilisation, with many points of interest relating to both early-European and Maori settlements.

Feb 12 2016FridayDay at Sea

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Steeped in legend and history, the Bay of Islands has lured explorers for centuries. Captain Cook anchored here in 1769, bestowing the simple name that captures its unpretentious charm. A spectacular landscape of black, volcanic rocks and rugged cliffs can be seen as the ship cruises into the Bay of Islands. One of the finest maritime parks in New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is home to more than 100 islands and numerous bays teeming with birds and marine life. The Bay of Islands is New Zealand's cradle of European civilisation, with many points of interest relating to both early-European and Maori settlements.

Feb 13 2016SaturdaySydney, Australia8:00 AMSHOW+

Sydney, Australia

Sydney belongs to that exclusive club of world cities that give you a sense of excitement from the first time you see them. Home to 4 million people, it is the biggest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia. Indented with numerous bays and beaches and gilded with a glistening Opera House, Sydney Harbour is the presiding icon for the city, and for urban Australia. But Sydney didn't have an easy beginning. The first residents were prisoners, flushed from overcrowded jails in England and sent halfway around the globe to live out their sentences and their lives. Sydney has long since outgrown the stigma of its convict origins, but the passage of time has not tamed its rebellious spirit.

Feb 13 2016SaturdaySydney, Australia

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Sydney, Australia

Sydney belongs to that exclusive club of world cities that give you a sense of excitement from the first time you see them. Home to 4 million people, it is the biggest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia. Indented with numerous bays and beaches and gilded with a glistening Opera House, Sydney Harbour is the presiding icon for the city, and for urban Australia. But Sydney didn't have an easy beginning. The first residents were prisoners, flushed from overcrowded jails in England and sent halfway around the globe to live out their sentences and their lives. Sydney has long since outgrown the stigma of its convict origins, but the passage of time has not tamed its rebellious spirit.

Feb 14 2016SundaySydney, Australia11:00 PMSHOW+

Sydney, Australia

Sydney belongs to that exclusive club of world cities that give you a sense of excitement from the first time you see them. Home to 4 million people, it is the biggest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia. Indented with numerous bays and beaches and gilded with a glistening Opera House, Sydney Harbour is the presiding icon for the city, and for urban Australia. But Sydney didn't have an easy beginning. The first residents were prisoners, flushed from overcrowded jails in England and sent halfway around the globe to live out their sentences and their lives. Sydney has long since outgrown the stigma of its convict origins, but the passage of time has not tamed its rebellious spirit.

Feb 15 2016MondayNewcastle, Australia7:00 AM5:00 PMSHOW+

Newcastle with a population of 250,000 is the second largest city in New South Wales, located at the mouth of the Hunter River. Founded as a penal colony, coal deposits quickly led to Newcastle becoming an important centre for shipping and commerce by the 1860s. Industrialisation increased after iron and steel mills were built in 1915. Today, Newcastle, known as the gateway to the Hunter Valley, is an attractive destination full of historic buildings. The city is the commercial, administrative and industrial centre of the region and has the largest export harbour in the Commonwealth. Attractions include numerous beaches, a rich heritage of Victorian architecture and a fabulous lookout at Mount Sugarloaf.

Feb 16 2016TuesdayDay at Sea

Newcastle with a population of 250,000 is the second largest city in New South Wales, located at the mouth of the Hunter River. Founded as a penal colony, coal deposits quickly led to Newcastle becoming an important centre for shipping and commerce by the 1860s. Industrialisation increased after iron and steel mills were built in 1915. Today, Newcastle, known as the gateway to the Hunter Valley, is an attractive destination full of historic buildings. The city is the commercial, administrative and industrial centre of the region and has the largest export harbour in the Commonwealth. Attractions include numerous beaches, a rich heritage of Victorian architecture and a fabulous lookout at Mount Sugarloaf.

Feb 17 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Newcastle with a population of 250,000 is the second largest city in New South Wales, located at the mouth of the Hunter River. Founded as a penal colony, coal deposits quickly led to Newcastle becoming an important centre for shipping and commerce by the 1860s. Industrialisation increased after iron and steel mills were built in 1915. Today, Newcastle, known as the gateway to the Hunter Valley, is an attractive destination full of historic buildings. The city is the commercial, administrative and industrial centre of the region and has the largest export harbour in the Commonwealth. Attractions include numerous beaches, a rich heritage of Victorian architecture and a fabulous lookout at Mount Sugarloaf.

Feb 18 2016ThursdayTownsville, Australia1:00 PM6:00 PMSHOW+

Founded in 1864, Townsville is the heart of North Queensland with a population of 130,000. It is the focal point of the region, attracting many people due to its pleasant climate and relaxed lifestyle. Townsville is the port city for the agricultural and mining production of the vast inland region of northern Queensland, as well as the starting point of the main road to the Northern Territory. In recent years, millions of dollars have been spent in an effort to attract more visitors to stay in Townsville rather than heading on to Cairns. A hotel-casino and marina have been built on the oceanfront and other parts of the city are being redeveloped while still retaining many of its 19th-century buildings.

Feb 19 2016FridayCairns, Australia8:00 AM

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Cairns, Australia

With its lush green mountains hugged by low-slung clouds, its sugarcane fields and laid-back pace, Cairns (pronounced Caans) feels worlds away from the bustle of Brisbane or the cobblestone streets of Melbourne. Cairns is the tourist's main jumping-off point for the wild Queensland north, where intense heat and fierce wildlife rule. Along with the cuddly koalas and hop-happy kangaroos of the south, you'll find stealthy saltwater crocodiles, poisonous snakes, and jellyfish so deadly they keep the stunning beaches virtually unswimmable for half the year. Yet despite the formidable setting, Cairns and Tropical North Queensland are far from intimidating.

Feb 20 2016SaturdayCairns, Australia7:00 PMSHOW+

Cairns, Australia

With its lush green mountains hugged by low-slung clouds, its sugarcane fields and laid-back pace, Cairns (pronounced Caans) feels worlds away from the bustle of Brisbane or the cobblestone streets of Melbourne. Cairns is the tourist's main jumping-off point for the wild Queensland north, where intense heat and fierce wildlife rule. Along with the cuddly koalas and hop-happy kangaroos of the south, you'll find stealthy saltwater crocodiles, poisonous snakes, and jellyfish so deadly they keep the stunning beaches virtually unswimmable for half the year. Yet despite the formidable setting, Cairns and Tropical North Queensland are far from intimidating.

Feb 21 2016SundayDay at Sea

Cairns, Australia

With its lush green mountains hugged by low-slung clouds, its sugarcane fields and laid-back pace, Cairns (pronounced Caans) feels worlds away from the bustle of Brisbane or the cobblestone streets of Melbourne. Cairns is the tourist's main jumping-off point for the wild Queensland north, where intense heat and fierce wildlife rule. Along with the cuddly koalas and hop-happy kangaroos of the south, you'll find stealthy saltwater crocodiles, poisonous snakes, and jellyfish so deadly they keep the stunning beaches virtually unswimmable for half the year. Yet despite the formidable setting, Cairns and Tropical North Queensland are far from intimidating.

Feb 22 2016MondayThursday Island, Australia7:00 AM12:00 PMSHOW+

Thursday Island, Australia

The colourful outpost of Thursday Island is one of only 17 inhabited islands in the Torres Strait. This important shipping channel is located between Cape York on the mainland of Australia and the southern coast of Papua New Guinea. ‘T.I.’, as the island is known, was settled in 1877 due to its well-sheltered harbour. Today, Thursday Island boasts a population of some 3,500; the majority is native islanders, with a mix of Malay, Polynesian, Chinese and Japanese. The island has an interesting history, and was once the base for a fleet of more than a hundred pearling vessels.

Feb 23 2016TuesdayDay at Sea

Thursday Island, Australia

The colourful outpost of Thursday Island is one of only 17 inhabited islands in the Torres Strait. This important shipping channel is located between Cape York on the mainland of Australia and the southern coast of Papua New Guinea. ‘T.I.’, as the island is known, was settled in 1877 due to its well-sheltered harbour. Today, Thursday Island boasts a population of some 3,500; the majority is native islanders, with a mix of Malay, Polynesian, Chinese and Japanese. The island has an interesting history, and was once the base for a fleet of more than a hundred pearling vessels.

Feb 24 2016WednesdayDarwin, Australia9:00 AM7:00 PMSHOW+

Darwin, Australia

Today, modern Darwin is the ideal place from which to explore the beauty and diversity of Australia's rugged Top End. But for the people of Darwin, everything is remembered as being before or after 1974's Cyclone Tracy, which hit on Christmas Eve and whose immense damage left a lasting scar in the area. It's a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles, however, belies a Top End history of failed attempts by Europeans dating back to 1824 to establish an enclave in a harsh, unyielding climate.

Feb 25 2016ThursdayDay at Sea

Darwin, Australia

Today, modern Darwin is the ideal place from which to explore the beauty and diversity of Australia's rugged Top End. But for the people of Darwin, everything is remembered as being before or after 1974's Cyclone Tracy, which hit on Christmas Eve and whose immense damage left a lasting scar in the area. It's a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles, however, belies a Top End history of failed attempts by Europeans dating back to 1824 to establish an enclave in a harsh, unyielding climate.

Feb 26 2016FridayDay at Sea

Darwin, Australia

Today, modern Darwin is the ideal place from which to explore the beauty and diversity of Australia's rugged Top End. But for the people of Darwin, everything is remembered as being before or after 1974's Cyclone Tracy, which hit on Christmas Eve and whose immense damage left a lasting scar in the area. It's a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles, however, belies a Top End history of failed attempts by Europeans dating back to 1824 to establish an enclave in a harsh, unyielding climate.

Feb 27 2016SaturdayBali (Benoa), Indonesia9:00 AM

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Bali (Benoa), Indonesia

Bali really is as alluring as everyone says. This island, slightly bigger than Delaware, has it all: beaches, volcanoes, terraced rice fields, forests, renowned resorts, surfing, golf, and world-class dive sites. But what sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is Balinese tradition, and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith aren't a show for tourists, but a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities. Snakes in the garden, including commercialism and traffic, diminish but don't destroy Bali's charm.

Feb 28 2016SundayBali (Benoa), Indonesia5:00 PMSHOW+

Bali (Benoa), Indonesia

Bali really is as alluring as everyone says. This island, slightly bigger than Delaware, has it all: beaches, volcanoes, terraced rice fields, forests, renowned resorts, surfing, golf, and world-class dive sites. But what sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is Balinese tradition, and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith aren't a show for tourists, but a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities. Snakes in the garden, including commercialism and traffic, diminish but don't destroy Bali's charm.

Feb 29 2016MondayDay at Sea

Bali (Benoa), Indonesia

Bali really is as alluring as everyone says. This island, slightly bigger than Delaware, has it all: beaches, volcanoes, terraced rice fields, forests, renowned resorts, surfing, golf, and world-class dive sites. But what sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is Balinese tradition, and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith aren't a show for tourists, but a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities. Snakes in the garden, including commercialism and traffic, diminish but don't destroy Bali's charm.

Mar 01 2016TuesdayDay at Sea

Bali (Benoa), Indonesia

Bali really is as alluring as everyone says. This island, slightly bigger than Delaware, has it all: beaches, volcanoes, terraced rice fields, forests, renowned resorts, surfing, golf, and world-class dive sites. But what sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is Balinese tradition, and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith aren't a show for tourists, but a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities. Snakes in the garden, including commercialism and traffic, diminish but don't destroy Bali's charm.

Mar 02 2016WednesdaySandakan, Malaysia8:00 AM5:30 PMSHOW+

Sandakan, Malaysia

One of Southeast Asia's most diverse countries, Malaysia has a population of 23 million, about 50% of whom are Malay, 24% Chinese, and 7% Indian. The remainder is a mix of immigrants from other places and non-Malay indigenous tribes. Malaysia is officially a Muslim country, but Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysia's two northern Borneo states, are primarily Christian, the legacy of 20th-century missionaries. Sabah encompasses some 75,500 square km (29,388 square mi), but it only has about 2 million people, of which the Kadazans are the largest ethnic group. Along the west coast, the Bajau grow rice and raise ponies; on the east coast, a group related to the Bajau are mostly fishermen.

Mar 03 2016ThursdayDay at Sea

Sandakan, Malaysia

One of Southeast Asia's most diverse countries, Malaysia has a population of 23 million, about 50% of whom are Malay, 24% Chinese, and 7% Indian. The remainder is a mix of immigrants from other places and non-Malay indigenous tribes. Malaysia is officially a Muslim country, but Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysia's two northern Borneo states, are primarily Christian, the legacy of 20th-century missionaries. Sabah encompasses some 75,500 square km (29,388 square mi), but it only has about 2 million people, of which the Kadazans are the largest ethnic group. Along the west coast, the Bajau grow rice and raise ponies; on the east coast, a group related to the Bajau are mostly fishermen.

Mar 04 2016FridayManila, Philippines8:00 AM5:00 PMSHOW+

Manila, Philippines

The urban sprawl that is metropolitan Manila is a fascinating, even surreal, combination of modernity and tradition. In Manila's streets, you'll see horse-drawn calesas (carriages) alongside sleek Mercedes-Benzes, Japanese sedans, passenger buses, and the ubiquitous passenger jeepneys — once converted World War II Jeeps, but now manufactured locally. Manila's upscale Makati City is the country's financial center, with wide, well-kept boulevards, high-rise apartment and office buildings, ultramodern shopping centers, and well-guarded walled enclaves of the fabulously rich. Getting around the city can be a daunting proposition in thelegendary traffic jams.

Mar 05 2016SaturdayDay at Sea

Manila, Philippines

The urban sprawl that is metropolitan Manila is a fascinating, even surreal, combination of modernity and tradition. In Manila's streets, you'll see horse-drawn calesas (carriages) alongside sleek Mercedes-Benzes, Japanese sedans, passenger buses, and the ubiquitous passenger jeepneys — once converted World War II Jeeps, but now manufactured locally. Manila's upscale Makati City is the country's financial center, with wide, well-kept boulevards, high-rise apartment and office buildings, ultramodern shopping centers, and well-guarded walled enclaves of the fabulously rich. Getting around the city can be a daunting proposition in thelegendary traffic jams.

Mar 06 2016SundayHong Kong12:00 PM

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Hong Kong

Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are divided both physically and psychologically by Victoria Harbour. On Hong Kong Island, the central city stretches only a few kilometers south into the island before mountains rise up, but the city goes several more kilometers north into Kowloon. In the main districts and neighborhoods, luxury boutiques are a stone's throw away from old hawker stalls, and a modern, high-tech horse-racing track is just around the corner from a temple housing more than 10,000 buddhas.

Mar 07 2016MondayHong KongSHOW+

Hong Kong

Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are divided both physically and psychologically by Victoria Harbour. On Hong Kong Island, the central city stretches only a few kilometers south into the island before mountains rise up, but the city goes several more kilometers north into Kowloon. In the main districts and neighborhoods, luxury boutiques are a stone's throw away from old hawker stalls, and a modern, high-tech horse-racing track is just around the corner from a temple housing more than 10,000 buddhas.

Mar 07 2016MondayHong Kong

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Hong Kong

Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are divided both physically and psychologically by Victoria Harbour. On Hong Kong Island, the central city stretches only a few kilometers south into the island before mountains rise up, but the city goes several more kilometers north into Kowloon. In the main districts and neighborhoods, luxury boutiques are a stone's throw away from old hawker stalls, and a modern, high-tech horse-racing track is just around the corner from a temple housing more than 10,000 buddhas.

Mar 08 2016TuesdayHong Kong6:00 PMSHOW+

Hong Kong

Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are divided both physically and psychologically by Victoria Harbour. On Hong Kong Island, the central city stretches only a few kilometers south into the island before mountains rise up, but the city goes several more kilometers north into Kowloon. In the main districts and neighborhoods, luxury boutiques are a stone's throw away from old hawker stalls, and a modern, high-tech horse-racing track is just around the corner from a temple housing more than 10,000 buddhas.

Mar 09 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Hong Kong

Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are divided both physically and psychologically by Victoria Harbour. On Hong Kong Island, the central city stretches only a few kilometers south into the island before mountains rise up, but the city goes several more kilometers north into Kowloon. In the main districts and neighborhoods, luxury boutiques are a stone's throw away from old hawker stalls, and a modern, high-tech horse-racing track is just around the corner from a temple housing more than 10,000 buddhas.

Mar 10 2016ThursdayHalong Bay, Vietnam8:00 AM

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Halong Bay, Vietnam

Hanoi, which has been Vietnam's capital several times and is again today, remains a city of academics, artists, diplomats, and contradictions. The self-appointed stronghold of Vietnamese anti-imperialist culture has learned to covet foreign tourist dollars. Originally built around an imperial citadel currently housing the modern military, Hanoi is divided into four main districts, or quan. Hoan Kiem District, named for the lake at its center, is the hub of most tourist activity. Just north of the lake is the Old Quarter, a charming cluster of ancient streets. South of the lake, you'll find the modern city center, once the French Quarter.

Mar 11 2016FridayHalong Bay, Vietnam1:00 PMSHOW+

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Hanoi, which has been Vietnam's capital several times and is again today, remains a city of academics, artists, diplomats, and contradictions. The self-appointed stronghold of Vietnamese anti-imperialist culture has learned to covet foreign tourist dollars. Originally built around an imperial citadel currently housing the modern military, Hanoi is divided into four main districts, or quan. Hoan Kiem District, named for the lake at its center, is the hub of most tourist activity. Just north of the lake is the Old Quarter, a charming cluster of ancient streets. South of the lake, you'll find the modern city center, once the French Quarter.

Mar 12 2016SaturdayDay at Sea

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Hanoi, which has been Vietnam's capital several times and is again today, remains a city of academics, artists, diplomats, and contradictions. The self-appointed stronghold of Vietnamese anti-imperialist culture has learned to covet foreign tourist dollars. Originally built around an imperial citadel currently housing the modern military, Hanoi is divided into four main districts, or quan. Hoan Kiem District, named for the lake at its center, is the hub of most tourist activity. Just north of the lake is the Old Quarter, a charming cluster of ancient streets. South of the lake, you'll find the modern city center, once the French Quarter.

Mar 13 2016SundayHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam1:30 PM

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Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The French called their colonial capital the Pearl of the Orient, and the triumphant Communists renamed it Ho Chi Minh City, but this former Cambodian port town is still called Saigon by almost everyone who lives here. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has served as a natural fortress and has been fought over by countless people during the past 2,000 years. The ancient Cambodian empire of Funan used the area as a trading post, and the Khmer kingdom of Angkor transformed Prey Nokor, as Saigon was then called, into a flourishing center of trade protected by a standing army. By the 14th century, while under Khmer rule, the city attracted international merchants.

Mar 14 2016MondayHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam2:00 PMSHOW+

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The French called their colonial capital the Pearl of the Orient, and the triumphant Communists renamed it Ho Chi Minh City, but this former Cambodian port town is still called Saigon by almost everyone who lives here. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has served as a natural fortress and has been fought over by countless people during the past 2,000 years. The ancient Cambodian empire of Funan used the area as a trading post, and the Khmer kingdom of Angkor transformed Prey Nokor, as Saigon was then called, into a flourishing center of trade protected by a standing army. By the 14th century, while under Khmer rule, the city attracted international merchants.

Mar 15 2016TuesdayDay at Sea

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The French called their colonial capital the Pearl of the Orient, and the triumphant Communists renamed it Ho Chi Minh City, but this former Cambodian port town is still called Saigon by almost everyone who lives here. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has served as a natural fortress and has been fought over by countless people during the past 2,000 years. The ancient Cambodian empire of Funan used the area as a trading post, and the Khmer kingdom of Angkor transformed Prey Nokor, as Saigon was then called, into a flourishing center of trade protected by a standing army. By the 14th century, while under Khmer rule, the city attracted international merchants.

Mar 16 2016WednesdayBangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand8:00 AM

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Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand

There are two Bangkoks, the ancient soul of Thailand with its long and fascinating history and the frantic, modern metropolis that embraces the latest trends both Eastern and Western. The two blend together remarkably well-even the most jarring juxtapositions of old and new somehow make sense. Bangkok is not only the biggest city in Thailand, but also the most mesmerizing, with some of the country's most beautiful temples and shrines. The city's energy is palpable, especially at night, when traffic opens up a bit, its famous markets get going, and everything seems lit up-from its proudest monuments to its seediest streets.

Mar 17 2016ThursdayBangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand5:00 PMSHOW+

Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand

There are two Bangkoks, the ancient soul of Thailand with its long and fascinating history and the frantic, modern metropolis that embraces the latest trends both Eastern and Western. The two blend together remarkably well-even the most jarring juxtapositions of old and new somehow make sense. Bangkok is not only the biggest city in Thailand, but also the most mesmerizing, with some of the country's most beautiful temples and shrines. The city's energy is palpable, especially at night, when traffic opens up a bit, its famous markets get going, and everything seems lit up-from its proudest monuments to its seediest streets.

Mar 18 2016FridayKoh Samui, Thailand12:00 PM5:00 PMSHOW+

Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand’s third largest island, Ko Samui, lies 420 miles (675 kilometres) south of Bangkok in the Gulf of Thailand. The first settlers were islanders from Hainan Island (now part of China) who took up coconut farming some 150 years ago. Today, in addition to tourism, coconut palms still provide a major source of income to residents. In fact, up to two million coconuts are shipped to Bangkok every month. Most of Ko Samui’s population lives in the port city of Na Thon. Located on the western side of the island, it is also the oldest town. While originally all travel was by boat or foot, a main road encircles the island, with several offshoots into the interior.

Mar 19 2016SaturdayDay at Sea

Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand’s third largest island, Ko Samui, lies 420 miles (675 kilometres) south of Bangkok in the Gulf of Thailand. The first settlers were islanders from Hainan Island (now part of China) who took up coconut farming some 150 years ago. Today, in addition to tourism, coconut palms still provide a major source of income to residents. In fact, up to two million coconuts are shipped to Bangkok every month. Most of Ko Samui’s population lives in the port city of Na Thon. Located on the western side of the island, it is also the oldest town. While originally all travel was by boat or foot, a main road encircles the island, with several offshoots into the interior.

Mar 20 2016SundaySingapore9:00 AM

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Singapore

To arrive in Singapore is to step into a world where the call to prayer competes with the bustle of capitalism; where old men play mah-jongg in the streets and white-clad bowlers send the ball flying down well-tended cricket pitches; where Chinese fortune-tellers and high-priced management consultants advise the same entrepreneur. This great diversity of lifestyles, cultures, and religions thrives within the framework of a well-ordered society. Singapore is a spotlessly clean, modern metropolis surrounded by green, groomed parks and populated by 4.6 million orderly and well-regulated people, including many foreigners.

Mar 21 2016MondaySingaporeSHOW+

Singapore

To arrive in Singapore is to step into a world where the call to prayer competes with the bustle of capitalism; where old men play mah-jongg in the streets and white-clad bowlers send the ball flying down well-tended cricket pitches; where Chinese fortune-tellers and high-priced management consultants advise the same entrepreneur. This great diversity of lifestyles, cultures, and religions thrives within the framework of a well-ordered society. Singapore is a spotlessly clean, modern metropolis surrounded by green, groomed parks and populated by 4.6 million orderly and well-regulated people, including many foreigners.

Mar 21 2016MondaySingapore6:00 PMSHOW+

Singapore

To arrive in Singapore is to step into a world where the call to prayer competes with the bustle of capitalism; where old men play mah-jongg in the streets and white-clad bowlers send the ball flying down well-tended cricket pitches; where Chinese fortune-tellers and high-priced management consultants advise the same entrepreneur. This great diversity of lifestyles, cultures, and religions thrives within the framework of a well-ordered society. Singapore is a spotlessly clean, modern metropolis surrounded by green, groomed parks and populated by 4.6 million orderly and well-regulated people, including many foreigners.

Kuala Lumpur presents modern, urban Southeast Asia in a manageable package. Malaysia's largest city universally known as KL is a grab bag of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures with European and Islamic influences. Colonial architecture mixes with modern skyscrapers; grand urban monuments obscure ancient alleyways where weather-beaten clerks tend to Oriental delights. The city isn't a particularly old one. When miners discovered tin between two murky rivers Kuala Lumpur means "muddy confluence" in Malay in 1857, Chinese traders promptly set up shop and the city was born. The British moved their colonial administration from nearby Selangor during the 1880s, and KL's urban sprawl began.

Mar 23 2016WednesdayPenang, Georgetown, Malaysia8:00 AM6:00 PMSHOW+

Penang, Georgetown, Malaysia

Off the Malay peninsula's west coast, Malaysia's island state of Penang (Pinang in Bahasa Malaysia, the national language) is a major vacation destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known as the Pearl of the Orient for its natural beauty, Pulau Pinang respects tradition but is neither stodgy nor sleepy. It has gracious colonial architecture, vibrant Chinese communities, Indian temples, mosques, beach resorts, and enticing food. Its population is primarily Hokkien Chinese, though there's also a sizable Indian community as well as many Malays.

Mar 24 2016ThursdayPhuket, Thailand8:00 AM2:00 PMSHOW+

Phuket, Thailand

Thailand's only island province is connected to the mainland by the Thep Krasettree Causeway. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand", Phuket offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that rise above the turquoise waters of Phang Nga Bay. With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is Thailand's largest island and about the same size as Singapore. Arab and Indian navigators have called here since the end of the 9th century, while the first Europeans arrived in the 16th century. Apart from tourism, much of the province's wealth derives from tin production, which started back in the 1500s.

Mar 25 2016FridayDay at Sea

Phuket, Thailand

Thailand's only island province is connected to the mainland by the Thep Krasettree Causeway. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand", Phuket offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that rise above the turquoise waters of Phang Nga Bay. With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is Thailand's largest island and about the same size as Singapore. Arab and Indian navigators have called here since the end of the 9th century, while the first Europeans arrived in the 16th century. Apart from tourism, much of the province's wealth derives from tin production, which started back in the 1500s.

Mar 26 2016SaturdayYangon, Myanmar (former Burma)9:00 AM

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Yangon, Myanmar (former Burma)

Myanmar, called Burma by the British, is the name long used by its people for their homeland. Myanmar is also known as the “Golden Land” for its rich soil and the wealth of minerals and precious stones.The country was consolidated in the 11th century by King Anawrahta with Bagan as its capital. His empire collapsed with the invasion of the Mongols 200 years later. In 1852, the British annexed Burma and gradually transformed Yangon (formerly Rangoon) into a booming trading center for rice, oil and teak.Their colonial rule lasted until 1948, interrupted only by the Japanese occupation during World War II. Yangon’s cosmopolitan air dissipated after the country achieved independence in 1948.

Mar 27 2016SundayYangon, Myanmar (former Burma)

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Yangon, Myanmar (former Burma)

Myanmar, called Burma by the British, is the name long used by its people for their homeland. Myanmar is also known as the “Golden Land” for its rich soil and the wealth of minerals and precious stones.The country was consolidated in the 11th century by King Anawrahta with Bagan as its capital. His empire collapsed with the invasion of the Mongols 200 years later. In 1852, the British annexed Burma and gradually transformed Yangon (formerly Rangoon) into a booming trading center for rice, oil and teak.Their colonial rule lasted until 1948, interrupted only by the Japanese occupation during World War II. Yangon’s cosmopolitan air dissipated after the country achieved independence in 1948.

Mar 28 2016MondayYangon, Myanmar (former Burma)6:00 PMSHOW+

Yangon, Myanmar (former Burma)

Myanmar, called Burma by the British, is the name long used by its people for their homeland. Myanmar is also known as the “Golden Land” for its rich soil and the wealth of minerals and precious stones.The country was consolidated in the 11th century by King Anawrahta with Bagan as its capital. His empire collapsed with the invasion of the Mongols 200 years later. In 1852, the British annexed Burma and gradually transformed Yangon (formerly Rangoon) into a booming trading center for rice, oil and teak.Their colonial rule lasted until 1948, interrupted only by the Japanese occupation during World War II. Yangon’s cosmopolitan air dissipated after the country achieved independence in 1948.

Mar 29 2016TuesdayDay at Sea

Yangon, Myanmar (former Burma)

Myanmar, called Burma by the British, is the name long used by its people for their homeland. Myanmar is also known as the “Golden Land” for its rich soil and the wealth of minerals and precious stones.The country was consolidated in the 11th century by King Anawrahta with Bagan as its capital. His empire collapsed with the invasion of the Mongols 200 years later. In 1852, the British annexed Burma and gradually transformed Yangon (formerly Rangoon) into a booming trading center for rice, oil and teak.Their colonial rule lasted until 1948, interrupted only by the Japanese occupation during World War II. Yangon’s cosmopolitan air dissipated after the country achieved independence in 1948.

Mar 30 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Yangon, Myanmar (former Burma)

Myanmar, called Burma by the British, is the name long used by its people for their homeland. Myanmar is also known as the “Golden Land” for its rich soil and the wealth of minerals and precious stones.The country was consolidated in the 11th century by King Anawrahta with Bagan as its capital. His empire collapsed with the invasion of the Mongols 200 years later. In 1852, the British annexed Burma and gradually transformed Yangon (formerly Rangoon) into a booming trading center for rice, oil and teak.Their colonial rule lasted until 1948, interrupted only by the Japanese occupation during World War II. Yangon’s cosmopolitan air dissipated after the country achieved independence in 1948.

Mar 31 2016ThursdayDay at Sea

Yangon, Myanmar (former Burma)

Myanmar, called Burma by the British, is the name long used by its people for their homeland. Myanmar is also known as the “Golden Land” for its rich soil and the wealth of minerals and precious stones.The country was consolidated in the 11th century by King Anawrahta with Bagan as its capital. His empire collapsed with the invasion of the Mongols 200 years later. In 1852, the British annexed Burma and gradually transformed Yangon (formerly Rangoon) into a booming trading center for rice, oil and teak.Their colonial rule lasted until 1948, interrupted only by the Japanese occupation during World War II. Yangon’s cosmopolitan air dissipated after the country achieved independence in 1948.

Apr 01 2016FridayColombo, Sri Lanka7:00 AM5:00 PMSHOW+

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Hot, noisy, peaceful, beguiling, frustrating, and fascinating are some of the adjectives you're likely to use while visiting Colombo. The main city of Sri Lanka (population 2.2 million) can feel like a smaller place than it is because the parts that are of most interest to visitors are fairly compact. As a visitor to the cruise port, you're continuing a tradition that goes back as far as the 5th century, when Colombo was an important port linking East with West. The Dutch used the town for trading with rich cinnamon plantations in the 17th century. Since independence in 1948, it has not stopped growing, with suburbs extending far north and south along the Indian Ocean coast.

Apr 02 2016SaturdayCochin, India12:00 PM6:00 PMSHOW+

Cochin, India

Cochin (also known as Kochi) is the great, old Keralan spice city. It consists of mainland Ernakulam, the islands of Willingdon, Bolgatty and Gundu in the harbor, Fort Cochin and Mattancherry on the southern peninsula and Vypeen Island north of Cochin. Because of the area's dense tropical forests, extensive ridges and ravines, it has been sheltered from invaders and the rest of India. This encouraged Keralites to welcome maritime contact, and therefore influence from the outside world. Cochin still has a small community of descendants from Jewish settlers who fled Palestine centuries ago.

Apr 03 2016SundayDay at Sea

Cochin, India

Cochin (also known as Kochi) is the great, old Keralan spice city. It consists of mainland Ernakulam, the islands of Willingdon, Bolgatty and Gundu in the harbor, Fort Cochin and Mattancherry on the southern peninsula and Vypeen Island north of Cochin. Because of the area's dense tropical forests, extensive ridges and ravines, it has been sheltered from invaders and the rest of India. This encouraged Keralites to welcome maritime contact, and therefore influence from the outside world. Cochin still has a small community of descendants from Jewish settlers who fled Palestine centuries ago.

Apr 04 2016MondayMumbai, India7:00 AM7:00 PMSHOW+

Mumbai, India

Mumbai, more popularly known as Bombay, is the economic powerhouse of India. It is the fastest-growing and most industrialized city in India. At one time, there existed nothing but a group of low-lying, swampy, malarial mud flats passed on to the British by the Portuguese as a dowry when Catherine of Braganza married England's Charles II in 1661. After the British takeover, Mumbai started to develop as an important trading port. It steadily grew over the next century; its most dynamic development took place in the mid-1800s. In 1854, the opening of India's first railway line from Mumbai to Thane prepared the route to the Deccan Plateau, stimulating cotton production for export and for milling in India.

Apr 05 2016TuesdayDay at Sea

Mumbai, India

Mumbai, more popularly known as Bombay, is the economic powerhouse of India. It is the fastest-growing and most industrialized city in India. At one time, there existed nothing but a group of low-lying, swampy, malarial mud flats passed on to the British by the Portuguese as a dowry when Catherine of Braganza married England's Charles II in 1661. After the British takeover, Mumbai started to develop as an important trading port. It steadily grew over the next century; its most dynamic development took place in the mid-1800s. In 1854, the opening of India's first railway line from Mumbai to Thane prepared the route to the Deccan Plateau, stimulating cotton production for export and for milling in India.

Apr 06 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Mumbai, India

Mumbai, more popularly known as Bombay, is the economic powerhouse of India. It is the fastest-growing and most industrialized city in India. At one time, there existed nothing but a group of low-lying, swampy, malarial mud flats passed on to the British by the Portuguese as a dowry when Catherine of Braganza married England's Charles II in 1661. After the British takeover, Mumbai started to develop as an important trading port. It steadily grew over the next century; its most dynamic development took place in the mid-1800s. In 1854, the opening of India's first railway line from Mumbai to Thane prepared the route to the Deccan Plateau, stimulating cotton production for export and for milling in India.

Apr 07 2016ThursdayDubai, United Arab Emirates2:00 PM

SHOW+

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Known as the City of Merchants, Dubai is the second largest of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. In the entire Gulf, there is no place quite like Dubai. Its history began in the 1830s when the city broke away from Abu Dhabi and became a centre of commerce and trading in its own right. In fact, Dubai's wealth is founded on trade, not oil. When oil was discovered in 1966, it merely contributed to the city's prosperity and sped up modernization. Modern development began at the turn of the last century with heavy import-export trading, mainly in gold. What opium was to the growth of Hong Kong, gold was to Dubai.

Apr 08 2016FridayDubai, United Arab EmiratesSHOW+

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Known as the City of Merchants, Dubai is the second largest of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. In the entire Gulf, there is no place quite like Dubai. Its history began in the 1830s when the city broke away from Abu Dhabi and became a centre of commerce and trading in its own right. In fact, Dubai's wealth is founded on trade, not oil. When oil was discovered in 1966, it merely contributed to the city's prosperity and sped up modernization. Modern development began at the turn of the last century with heavy import-export trading, mainly in gold. What opium was to the growth of Hong Kong, gold was to Dubai.

Apr 08 2016FridayDubai, United Arab Emirates

SHOW+

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Known as the City of Merchants, Dubai is the second largest of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. In the entire Gulf, there is no place quite like Dubai. Its history began in the 1830s when the city broke away from Abu Dhabi and became a centre of commerce and trading in its own right. In fact, Dubai's wealth is founded on trade, not oil. When oil was discovered in 1966, it merely contributed to the city's prosperity and sped up modernization. Modern development began at the turn of the last century with heavy import-export trading, mainly in gold. What opium was to the growth of Hong Kong, gold was to Dubai.

Apr 09 2016SaturdayDubai, United Arab Emirates7:00 AMSHOW+

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Known as the City of Merchants, Dubai is the second largest of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. In the entire Gulf, there is no place quite like Dubai. Its history began in the 1830s when the city broke away from Abu Dhabi and became a centre of commerce and trading in its own right. In fact, Dubai's wealth is founded on trade, not oil. When oil was discovered in 1966, it merely contributed to the city's prosperity and sped up modernization. Modern development began at the turn of the last century with heavy import-export trading, mainly in gold. What opium was to the growth of Hong Kong, gold was to Dubai.

Apr 10 2016SundayMuscat, Oman8:00 AM7:00 PMSHOW+

Muscat, Oman

Oman is the second-largest country in the Arabian Gulf after Saudi Arabia, sprawling over 212,500 square km (82,047 square mi) roughly the size of the state of Kansas. The country was enigmatic and isolated until the present ruler of the country, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, assumed the throne in 1970. Since then, Sultan Qaboos has been busy transforming this once-feudal nation into a modern state. Unlike its more cosmopolitan neighbor, the United Arab Emirates, this progress has been slow but steady.

Apr 11 2016MondayDay at Sea

Muscat, Oman

Oman is the second-largest country in the Arabian Gulf after Saudi Arabia, sprawling over 212,500 square km (82,047 square mi) roughly the size of the state of Kansas. The country was enigmatic and isolated until the present ruler of the country, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, assumed the throne in 1970. Since then, Sultan Qaboos has been busy transforming this once-feudal nation into a modern state. Unlike its more cosmopolitan neighbor, the United Arab Emirates, this progress has been slow but steady.

Apr 12 2016TuesdaySalalah, Oman12:00 PM6:00 PMSHOW+

Salalah, Oman

The lush landscape around Salalah is the intriguing result of a quirk of nature. Since it is uniquely situated in the path of the Khareef, or South Western Monsoon, this stretch of the Dhofar Coast is covered in fine mist and frequent rain from mid-June through mid-September. By the time the monsoons cease, the entire coastline is a verdant stretch. Waterfalls, rolling grasslands, and thickly wooded wadis (riverbeds) thrive alongside rapid mountain streams. Unique in this desert region, Salalah attracts many visitors from the surrounding Arabian Gulf countries who are anxious to experience a rare lushness in a region where rain and greenery are in short supply.

Apr 13 2016WednesdayDay at Sea

Salalah, Oman

The lush landscape around Salalah is the intriguing result of a quirk of nature. Since it is uniquely situated in the path of the Khareef, or South Western Monsoon, this stretch of the Dhofar Coast is covered in fine mist and frequent rain from mid-June through mid-September. By the time the monsoons cease, the entire coastline is a verdant stretch. Waterfalls, rolling grasslands, and thickly wooded wadis (riverbeds) thrive alongside rapid mountain streams. Unique in this desert region, Salalah attracts many visitors from the surrounding Arabian Gulf countries who are anxious to experience a rare lushness in a region where rain and greenery are in short supply.

Apr 14 2016ThursdayDay at Sea

Salalah, Oman

The lush landscape around Salalah is the intriguing result of a quirk of nature. Since it is uniquely situated in the path of the Khareef, or South Western Monsoon, this stretch of the Dhofar Coast is covered in fine mist and frequent rain from mid-June through mid-September. By the time the monsoons cease, the entire coastline is a verdant stretch. Waterfalls, rolling grasslands, and thickly wooded wadis (riverbeds) thrive alongside rapid mountain streams. Unique in this desert region, Salalah attracts many visitors from the surrounding Arabian Gulf countries who are anxious to experience a rare lushness in a region where rain and greenery are in short supply.

Apr 15 2016FridayDay at Sea

Salalah, Oman

The lush landscape around Salalah is the intriguing result of a quirk of nature. Since it is uniquely situated in the path of the Khareef, or South Western Monsoon, this stretch of the Dhofar Coast is covered in fine mist and frequent rain from mid-June through mid-September. By the time the monsoons cease, the entire coastline is a verdant stretch. Waterfalls, rolling grasslands, and thickly wooded wadis (riverbeds) thrive alongside rapid mountain streams. Unique in this desert region, Salalah attracts many visitors from the surrounding Arabian Gulf countries who are anxious to experience a rare lushness in a region where rain and greenery are in short supply.

Apr 16 2016SaturdayDay at Sea

Salalah, Oman

The lush landscape around Salalah is the intriguing result of a quirk of nature. Since it is uniquely situated in the path of the Khareef, or South Western Monsoon, this stretch of the Dhofar Coast is covered in fine mist and frequent rain from mid-June through mid-September. By the time the monsoons cease, the entire coastline is a verdant stretch. Waterfalls, rolling grasslands, and thickly wooded wadis (riverbeds) thrive alongside rapid mountain streams. Unique in this desert region, Salalah attracts many visitors from the surrounding Arabian Gulf countries who are anxious to experience a rare lushness in a region where rain and greenery are in short supply.

Apr 17 2016SundaySafaga, Egypt7:00 AM8:00 PMSHOW+

Safaga, Egypt

The port city of Safaga is located on the western flank of the Red Sea, across from the shores of Saudi Arabia. The dusty streets are for the most part quiet, save for the occasional truck or bus. Diving enthusiasts come to the few resort hotels located north of Safaga to enjoy one of the world's best and relatively unspoilt locations for underwater exploration. Their number is steadily increasing. As a result, Safaga's facilities are gradually improving. For cruise vessels, Safaga serves as the starting point for excursions to Luxor, which ranks amongst the most important destinations in Egypt.

Apr 18 2016MondayAqaba, Jordan8:30 AM9:00 PMSHOW+

Aqaba, Jordan

Jordan is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Middle East, offering attractions that are manifold and unequalled. The country is not blessed with rich oil supplies; its treasures lie in the beauty of the land and a unique combination of antiquities, natural environment and traditions. The rose-red City of Petra and the captivating desert of Wadi Rum draw scores of visitors to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan each year.
Aqaba is Jordan's only port and of tremendous importance to the country's economy. Countless trucks ply the route between Aqaba and the capital Amman, a journey of some 220 miles. With stark mountains rising in the background, Aqaba enjoys an attractive setting.

Apr 19 2016TuesdaySharm el Sheik, Egypt6:00 AM3:00 PMSHOW+

Sharm el Sheik, Egypt

The port and town of Sharm-el-Sheikh lies near the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula where the Straits of Tiran meet the Gulf of Aqaba. With its strategic position, the Sinai posed a desirable target for various rulers over the centuries. In recent times, the last battle for the Sinai was fought between Egypt and Israel from 1967 to 1979, ending with a peace treaty signed in Washington, D.C. Since the withdrawal of the Israelis, more and more Egyptians have settled in the Sinai, taking advantage of the booming tourist trade. However, vast interior regions are still sparsely populated.

Apr 20 2016WednesdaySuez Canal Transit, Egypt3:30 AM5:30 PM

Suez Canal Transit, Egypt

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Apr 20 2016WednesdayPort Said, Egypt6:30 PM9:00 PMSHOW+

Port Said, Egypt

One of the world's great cosmopolitan cities for well over a thousand years, Cairo is infinite and inexhaustible. Different religions, different cultures, sometimes, it seems even different eras-coexist amid the jostling crowds and aging monuments gathered here at the start of the Nile delta. But if you come expecting a city frozen in time, you're in for a shock: Cairo's current vitality is as seductive as its rich past. Like so much else in Egypt, Cairo's charm is a product of its history, the physical remains of a thousand years of being conquered and reconquered by different groups. Cairo gradually reveals its treasures, not with pizzazz and bells and whistles, but with a self-assured understatement.

Apr 21 2016ThursdayAshdod (Jerusalem), Israel8:00 AM11:00 PMSHOW+

Ashdod (Jerusalem), Israel

Busy Ashdod is not only one of Israel's fastest-growing cities, it's also the country's largest port. Perched on the Mediterranean, it processes more than 60% of the goods imported into Israel. Home to many ancient peoples over the centuries, Ashdod today is a modern, planned city. It's also a convenient jumping-off point for exploring several of Israel's most interesting cities, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Bethlehem.

Israel's largest port city (and third-largest city overall), Haifa was ruled for four centuries by the Ottomans and gradually grew up the mountainside into a cosmopolitan city whose port served the entire Middle East. In 1902 Theodor Herzl enthusiastically dubbed it "the city of the future." The city is the world center for the Baha'i faith, and the most striking landmark on the city's mountainside is the gleaming golden dome of the Baha'i Shrine, set amid utterly beautiful circular grass terraces that fill the slope from top to bottom.

Apr 23 2016SaturdayDay at Sea

Haifa (Tel Aviv, Nazareth), Israel

Israel's largest port city (and third-largest city overall), Haifa was ruled for four centuries by the Ottomans and gradually grew up the mountainside into a cosmopolitan city whose port served the entire Middle East. In 1902 Theodor Herzl enthusiastically dubbed it "the city of the future." The city is the world center for the Baha'i faith, and the most striking landmark on the city's mountainside is the gleaming golden dome of the Baha'i Shrine, set amid utterly beautiful circular grass terraces that fill the slope from top to bottom.

Apr 24 2016SundaySouda Bay, Crete, Greece8:00 AM2:00 PM

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Apr 25 2016MondayCorfu, Greece1:00 PM7:00 PMSHOW+

Corfu, Greece

Kerkyra (Corfu) is the greenest and, quite possibly, the prettiest of all Greek islands-emerald mountains, ocher-and-pink buildings, shimmering silver olive leaves. The turquoise waters lap rocky coves and bougainvillea, scarlet roses, and wisteria spread over cottages. This northernmost of the major Ionian Islands has, through the centuries, inspired artists, conquerors, royalty, and, of course, tourists. Indeed, when you look at Corfu in total, it's hard to believe that any island so small could generate a history so large. Classical remains vie with architecture from the centuries of Venetian, French, and British rule, leaving Corfu with a pleasant combination of contrasting design elements.

Apr 26 2016TuesdayKotor, Montenegro8:00 AM6:00 PMSHOW+

Kotor, Montenegro

Located in Bokor Kotorska (Kotor Bay), Europe's most southerly fjord, Kotor lies 50 miles (80 km) west of Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, from which it is separated by a belt of dramatic, rugged mountains. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kotor's medieval Stari Grad (Old Town) is enclosed within well-preserved defensive walls built between the 9th and 18th centuries and presided over by a proud hilltop fortress. In the Middle Ages, as Serbia's chief port, Kotor was an important economic and cultural center with its own highly-regarded schools of stone-masonry and iconography.

Apr 26 2016TuesdayDubrovnik, Croatia11:30 PM

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Dubrovnik, Croatia

Commanding a splendid coastal location, Dubrovnik is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and splendid fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in, and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one.

Apr 27 2016WednesdayDubrovnik, Croatia5:30 PMSHOW+

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Commanding a splendid coastal location, Dubrovnik is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and splendid fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in, and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one.

Apr 28 2016ThursdayVenice, Italy2:00 PM

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Venice, Italy

It's called La Serenissima, "the most serene", a reference to the majesty, wisdom, and immense power of this city that was for centuries the mistress of trade between Europe and the Orient. Built largely on water by men who both defied and loved the sea, Venice is unlike any other town. No matter how many times you've seen it in movies or on TV, the real thing is more startlingly beautiful than you could ever imagine. Its landmarks, the Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale, are exotic mixes of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.

Apr 29 2016FridayVenice, Italy

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Venice, Italy

It's called La Serenissima, "the most serene", a reference to the majesty, wisdom, and immense power of this city that was for centuries the mistress of trade between Europe and the Orient. Built largely on water by men who both defied and loved the sea, Venice is unlike any other town. No matter how many times you've seen it in movies or on TV, the real thing is more startlingly beautiful than you could ever imagine. Its landmarks, the Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale, are exotic mixes of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.

Apr 30 2016SaturdayVenice, ItalySHOW+

Venice, Italy

It's called La Serenissima, "the most serene", a reference to the majesty, wisdom, and immense power of this city that was for centuries the mistress of trade between Europe and the Orient. Built largely on water by men who both defied and loved the sea, Venice is unlike any other town. No matter how many times you've seen it in movies or on TV, the real thing is more startlingly beautiful than you could ever imagine. Its landmarks, the Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale, are exotic mixes of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.

Routes

For those who don’t have three months for a full World Cruise, perhaps two or three weeks sound more feasible and affordable. World Cruise 2016 is available in seven shorter segments of 11 to 23 days. Or combine two segments or more and enjoy combination cruise savings on a magnificent journey to the regions of the world that interest you most.

Passage to Ancient Civilisations — Panama Canal & Peru

Traditional markets display artisan crafts in the volcanic highlands of Ecuador. Mud bricked temples of pre-Columbian cultures lie buried among the dramatic landscapes of the Altiplano. Stand in awe as parting clouds between Andean peaks reveal the lost Incan city of Machu Picchu. Savour a hearty Malbec with a spicy lomo saltado of steaks and chimichurri. Colours, flavors, rhythms … everything along the Inca Coast seems fiery and filled with passion.

The Greatest Shortcut on Earth

For any travel enthusiast, a Panama Canal transit is an awesome event, a 51-mile crossing through an intricate lacework of dams, lakes and locks. As Silver Whisper snakes through the wildlife-rich jungles of Panama, you’ll enjoy a unique dichotomy: a man-made marvel entwined with untamed wilds on either side. This is one shortcut you may wish would never end.

The Cloud Forests of Costa Rica

Wander through the mists of lofty cloud forests where hummingbirds outnumber crows back home. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature on a boat ride through the wildlife-rich Tortuguero canals. Zip over the rainforest canopy or snorkel the largest coral reef system in the country. Costa Rica is an eco-wonderland for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Treasures Along the Inca Coast

Peru’s landscapes leave travellers breathless, whether it is the cloud-kissed terraces of Machu Picchu or the otherworldly expanses of the Altiplano, a landscape of fire and ice, wind and salt. The remnants of legendary empires abound, from Incan ruins to the sites of ancient Moche and Chimu civilizations near Trujillo.

Hailed as the “City of Kings” by Spanish conquistadores, Lima is reigning once again as a culinary hotspot and global epicentre of the arts, while its museums rank as some of the finest in South America. Admire the splendid 17th century architecture in the historic centre, the colonial capital founded by Pizarro, and don’t leave without savouring the capital’s culinary genius.

Ancient Navigators of the South Pacific

Follow in the wake of Thor Heyerdahl from Peru to Easter Island, standing before the giant moai and experiencing their powerful aura on the most isolated island in the world. Study the giant stone faces and ancient petroglyphs that hold the secrets of ancient Polynesians. Stop at Pitcairn Island to meet the descendants of the Bounty mutineers. The South Pacific beckons with talcum sands, swaying palms and coral reefs washed by a crystalline sea. Fragrant vanilla and tiare blossoms scent the warm breezes of the trade winds, and shimmering lagoons glow platinum under the setting sun.

The Echoes of Easter Island

Carved by the Rapa Nui people, the mysterious moai statues stand in silence but speak volumes about the achievements of their creators. Over 800 stone blocks, some almost 13 feet tall, are scattered amid an eerie landscape. Join us as expert guides explain the origin of these remarkable monoliths and attempt to unravel the mystery of their creation.

Pitcairn Island: In the Wake of the Bounty

The siren call of tiny Pitcairn Island once lured the sailors of the HMS Bounty, causing the infamous mutiny. The crew was enticed by the promise of a leisurely life among the islanders here, and quite a few found it—many of the 50 current residents are direct descendants of the mutineers.

Fakarava – An Untouched World

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this Polynesian island is one of the 77 atolls that make up the stunning Tuamotu archipelago, narrow coral rings encircling turquoise lagoons. It is a pelagic wonderland of biodiversity, while life along the shores is an idyll of quaint villages, old coral churches and warm, friendly people. Welcome to the island of your dreams.

A Journey to Paradise — The Society Islands

The “Magical Island”, the “Pearl of the Pacific”, the “Island of Love”… the spell-binding allure of Tahiti and her islands is apparent in these sundry sobriquets. From Moorea with its legendary bays to Tahiti, home of artist Paul Gauguin, these islands capture the pure essence of paradise – both above and beneath the sea.

Under the Southern Cross

Discover the essence of paradise: Tahiti, where Paul Gauguin painted his masterworks; Bora Bora, James Michener’s Bali Ha’i; the Cook Islands, the stuff that dreams are made of. Every port reveals a new paradise on this South Pacific odyssey. Bay of Islands in New Zealand is an endless spectacle of stunning beaches and hidden coves, while Rotorua in the Maori heartland is a geothermal wonderland, where bubbling mud baths, spouting geysers and steaming vents erupt in a dazzling display. Then, be sure to be on deck as we sail into beautiful Sydney Harbour with its magnificent opera house and graceful harbour bridge.

James Michener’s Bali Ha’i

Bora Bora was Michener’s Bali Ha’i in Tales of the South Pacific. Dive into its spectacular turquoise lagoon, pick your way through the cool shade of a bamboo forest, and discover why the Society Islands have been immortalized by world-renowned authors from Melville to Michener to Maugham.

Cook Islands: The Best Kept Secret in the South Pacific

In a region renowned for its island paradises, the Cook Islands are an under-the-radar jewel. The pristine, picturesque setting here — including white-sand beaches, thick jungle, limestone caves and turquoise lagoons — is perfectly complemented by fascinating Polynesian traditions.

Maori Myths and Geothermal Wonders

From the site of Captain Cook’s first landing to its boiling mud pools and gushing geysers, the diversity of North Island is dazzling. Admire the Bay of Islands with their white sandy beaches, pristine subtropical forests and spectacular inlets, and experience the volcanic moonscape of Rotorua from Tauranga, heartland of the Maori people.

Auckland, City of Sails

In a nation where stunning scenery is taken for granted, Auckland sparkles like a freshly polished jewel. Nearly fifty volcanoes encircle the city. An endless succession of bays and inlets stretch along its untamed shores and lush green parkland exudes a sense of spacious beauty. No wonder Aucklanders are devoted to their 3 B’s: boats, beaches and barbecues.

From The Great Barrier Reef to Bali & Beyond

Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Bali, Borneo — this voyage sweep sacross two hemispheres, two continents, and to a breathtaking succession of sights: coral wonders and aboriginal treasures, rainforests, wineries and orangutans. Overnight stays in Cairns and Bali give you time to explore the seismic wonders Down Under, along with the hand-carved temples and emerald rice terraces of Bali. While Hong Kong is a veritable feast for the senses, and with your two night stay you’ll have time to sample it all.

Reefs, Rainforests & ‘Roos

The varied thrills of Australia’s eastern coast await. Whether you’re looking up at the Sydney Opera House, eye-to-eye with a kangaroo, snorkelling along the Great Barrier Reef or roaming the rugged expanse of the Outback, the wonders Down Under never cease to amaze.

Bewitching Bali

Bali is known as the “Island of a Thousand Temples”: a Hindu enclave teeming with fascinating sanctuaries and millennia-old rituals. Of course, travellers will also enjoy the tropical trappings of this legendary island — lush emerald rice paddies, ribbons of white sand and imposing volcanoes that rise into the mist.

Wild Man of the Jungle: the Borneo Rainforest

Exotic and endemic wildlife roam the ancient rainforests of Borneo while indigenous cultures carry on as they have for thousands of years. Set out from Sandakan to the world-famous Sepilok, the renown orangutan sanctuary enclosed inside a tropical virgin rainforest, and revel in the “lost world” feeling of the world’s third largest island.

Hong Kong, Pearl of the Orient

Hong Kong is a vibrant metropolis and a cacophony of contradictions. Upscale boutiques are juxtaposed with rickety food stalls, and towering office buildings share streets with humble Buddhist temples. Though the streets thrum with modern bustle, they are laced with Old World charm.

Cruising the South China Sea

Experience a kaleidoscope of exotic sights, sounds, tastes and experiences in Vietnam, a rising dragon where emerald rice paddies give way to cities booming with entrepreneurial energy. Observe the striking contrasts of Bangkok from the tranquility and beauty of its ancient temples and palaces to the clamour of tuk-tuks and motorbikes that throng its streets. Shift into slow gear amid the golden beaches and quiet solitude of Ko Samui, an island paradise of tropical greenery. Then experience Singapore, Asia’s economic miracle, where age-old neighbourhoods co-exist with a soaring skyline out of tomorrowland

Vietnam: A Blanket of Emeralds from End to End

Red-sailed junks on Halong Bay, water buffalo in emerald rice paddies and harvested rice left to dry in the sun; Vietnam’s pastoral beauty is the first thing to strike you. Yet as you explore its urban landscape, cities like Hue and French-colonial Hanoi, you’ll experience a cultural heritage as rich as the Mekong Delta.

Bangkok: Temples & Tuk-Tuks

The intimate Silver Whisper can cruise up the river directly into the heart of Bangkok. Take a tuk-tuk and go exploring. The silent grandeur of over 400 wats form one of Asia’s great spectacle in Thailand’s bustling capital. Stroll through the grounds of Grand Palace. Admire the shrines that line the banks of the colourful klongs. Behind a maelstrom of modernity you’ll discover the heart and soul of this ancient land.

Ko Samui

With its powder white beaches, aquamarine waters and sleepy lagoons, this tropical retreat has justifiably become of Asia's premier beach resorts. Seek out the hidden waterfalls and bathing pools and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of a tropical paradise.

Singapore: the “Lion City”

Singapore’s reputation as a gleaming city of excitement and enterprise is well-earned: it has more millionaires per square mile than anyplace else. The “Lion City” is also a shopper’s wonderland, an epicurean’s delight, and a fascinating melange of cultural influences ranging from Chinese and Malay to British and Indian.

Along the Spice Route

Golden beaches, bejewelled pagodas and Mughal marvels light our way as we sail through the Strait of Malacca to Penang and Phuket, glamorous resorts of Asia’s growing moneyed class, and Kuala Lumpur with its dazzling skyline. Enjoy three days in re-emerging Myanmar, warmly welcoming but still lost in time. Revel in the magnificent landscapes of lush Sri Lanka and India’s Spice Coast; then shop in the opulent souks of Dubai, showplace of the Middle East.

Penang & Phuket — Beaches and Islands

Talcum beaches lay tantalizingly close to Buddhist temples in these world-class resorts. In Penang, karstic seascapes rise above the turquoise waters of Phang Nga Bay, while ornate temples and colonial mansions recall the glory of the spice trade in George Town, the capital of Penang.

The Jewels of Burma

Turn back the clock during your three-day stay in time-warped Myanmar. The Shwedagon Pagoda pierces the skyline of Yangon, a wonderland of towering spires, glittering statuary and saffron-robed monks. In the ancient capital of Bagan, over 2,000 pagodas and temples sprawl across a high plain, one of Asia’s most spectacular and important archaeological sites.

Passage to India

Sail across the Bay of Bengal to Sri Lanka, the “Emerald Isle,” a quilted landscape of villages, tea plantations and primeval rainforest. Then India draws us with its painted elephants and the vibrancy of its contrasting cultures. Find serenity as you glide through the backwaters of Kerala from Cochin, and heart-breaking beauty as you stand before the Taj Mahal.

Dubai — Showplace of the Persian Gulf

The world's tallest tower, manmade islands, underwater hotels, an indoor ski resort — in just a few wild decades, “the little fishing village that could” has become a tomorrowland that’s hard to believe. Bedouins may still roam the desert, but sun-seekers and sightseers flock to this futuristic city and luxury shopping mecca, and development continues at a frenetic pace.

Along the Frankincense Trail

Undulating dunes, pink shifting sands, scalloped hills shimmering in the dry desert heat — follow the Frankincense Route to lands of myrrh and incense, sultans and kings: Dubai, a high-rise pleasure dome; Oman, jewel of the Persian Gulf; Jordan with its bone-dry wadis and rose-red Petra carved from sheer rock. Gaze in amazement at the pharaonic glories of Egypt. Marvel at the soul-stirring beauty of the Holy Land. Cruise through the Aegean and Adriatic Seas from island to island, village to village. Then spend two nights in Venice where you can explore the streets and canals, and toast farewell at the Masquerade Ball.

Oman, Ancient Centre of the Frankincense Trade

Modernity and deep tradition are woven together into one brilliant tapestry in the land of Sinbad and the Queen of Sheba. Low-rise pastel buildings and sparkling domed mosques form the skyline of Muscat, the Omani capital. Relax on a dhow cruise through the spectacular fjords of Musandam. Smell frankincense and myrrh in the souks of Salalah, and visit Job’s Tomb where pilgrims come to pay homage.

The Red Sea & Legends of Antiquity

Haunting Petra. The temples of Luxor. Bustling souks and Bedouin herders. Visions both foreign and fascinating straddle the banks of the Red Sea. Swim and snorkel the spectacular reefs of Sharm el Sheik. Then cross the desert to the Pyramids of Giza and stand before the Sphinx.

The Biblical Bounty of the Holy Land

The Holy Land has been a fount of faith for millennia. Along with the Biblical treasures of Jerusalem from the Western Wall to Vad Yashem, you can visit Bethlehem, the Galilee, or Masada and the Dead Sea, and experience the palpable spiritual energy that has drawn both prophets and pilgrims.

The Breathtaking Dalmatian Coast

Cruise in the wake of Roman galleons to the sun-drenched gems of the Dalmatian Coast, ancient Adriatic ports recognized for their beauty and historic treasures by UNESCO. Discover Medieval Dubrovnik with its magnificent old city walls. Stroll through Kotor’s Baroque old town and admire its magnificent setting along the largest European fjord this side of Norway.

Suites

Silver Whisper’s oceanview suites are some of the most spacious in cruising. All include the services of a personal butler, thanks to the highest service ratio at sea. And almost all have a private teak veranda so that you can breathe in the fresh sea air by merely stepping outside your door.

Owner’s Suite

The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. For those who expect the finest from a luxury cruise.

In the Owner’s Suite, you can enjoy breakfast on your private veranda, or watch the sun set along the horizon from the comfort of your spacious living room. Pamper yourself with a luxurious bath in your Italian marbled bathroom. Primp in front of your vanity table while preparing for a sumptuous onboard dinner.

Grand Suite

Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed, the Grand Suite is the ideal space for both entertaining friends and enjoying quiet time alone on your private veranda. With a large living room and beautiful Italian marbled bathroom, this suite offers an abundance of fine comforts.

Unwind as you wish. Sip cocktails while reclining on the furnished patio. Soak in a relaxing hot bath. Prepare for an elegant meal with your own vanity and walk-in wardrobe. Or enjoy a relaxing dinner in-suite and get comfortable while watching an on-demand movie in bed.

Royal Suite

Commanding and majestic, the stately Royal Suite is perfect for entertaining, with enough living space to roam and relax. Select a one-bedroom configuration or, to double your comfort, expand to two bedrooms by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.

Sip cocktails on the spacious veranda, where you can delight in spectacular ocean views and calming sea breezes. Engage in fascinating conversation while relaxing in the spacious living room. Or host supper with friends or family in your very own dining area. Here, experience the pinnacle of good living.

Silver Suite

Style and sophistication epitomises the Silver Suite and are a favourite among returning Silversea guests. And it’s really no wonder. From the minute you enter this suite, a spacious sitting area warmly welcomes you.

Admire panoramic views while gazing through the suite’s expansive glass doors, or step onto your veranda to relish the calm feeling of the ocean breeze. A beautiful marbled bathroom, large wardrobe and vanity table allow you to prepare for the evening’s activities in refined comfort. Wind down after an active day spent ashore by melting into your bed’s plush linens and viewing a movie on the flat-screen television.

With a preferred midship location, the Silver Suite lands you closest to all of our incredible onboard offerings.

Medallion Suite

A mark of distinction, the Medallion Suite boasts a sumptuous and spacious living area, complete with rich textures and panoramic views – from both your large private veranda and cosy indoor sitting area.

Nestle up under plush bed linens and watch a complimentary movie on your flat-screen television. Rejuvenate after a busy day of exploring onshore with a hot shower in your lavish marbled bathroom. Relax with ease, as the grandeurs of this suite surround you with distinguished luxury.

Veranda Suite

A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite offers a spacious and welcoming living area ­– both inside and out. Elegant décor, a stunning marbled bathroom and ample sitting area provide a generous expanse of interior comforts. Whether you are preparing for a dynamic day on shore, primping for a romantic dinner on board, or settling down for a quiet evening in, you will be enveloped by this inviting suite’s warm touches.

The interior of the Veranda Suite is only the beginning. Perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Here, each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.

Terrace Suite

A quiet sanctuary where large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views, the Terrace Suite provides a splendid repose for guests. With a shared teak veranda, this suite provides an easy transition from peace and privacy to the energy and excitement of the onboard social scene.

Lounge in your spacious sitting area. Enjoy breakfast in bed under the warmth of fine linens. Refresh the mind in your inviting marbled bathroom after a dynamic shore excursion. Get ready for an evening out on the ship at your personal vanity. Then merely step outside on the veranda to savor a cocktail or embrace the calming ocean breeze.

Vista Suite

A peaceful enclave, the Vista Suite is the perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views. You can watch the sun rise before the excitement of an early shore excursion, or toast cocktails as it sets behind the horizon. Whichever way you choose to enjoy your suite, the sitting area offers plenty of room to relax.

Freshen up in the stunning marbled bathroom, with your choice of amenities. Catch a movie on the satellite-equipped flat-screen television. Or if it is sleep you are after, draw the drapes and drift off soundly while nestled among soft bed linens.

Silver Privilege Fares: book early for the best fares and availability; Silver Privilege Fares are structured to reward guests who book early with the best possible fare and the privilege of being able to select their desired suite when the best inventory is available. All Silver Privilege Fares shown are cruise-only per guest, based on double-occupancy. Availability of all suite categories cannot be guaranteed. Fares for single guests are available upon request. Additional restrictions may apply.

Silversea Fare Guarantee Programme: Silversea’s Fare Guarantee Programme provides guests with the peace of mind in knowing that when they plan ahead and book early, not only will they be able to reserve their desired suite, but they can also benefit from any future reduction in the Silver Privilege Fares for their voyage, upon request. All voyages are eligible.

Single Occupancy and Third Guest Rates are available upon request: ourReservations teamis available for any further clarification.

Shore Excursions and Wifi – 2015 Mediterranean Sailings Only: All Silver Privilege Fares shown are cruise-only per person in US dollars based on double-occupancy in a Vista suite and include Silver Shore Select; applies to new bookings made on or after January 15, 2015 only. Silver Shore Select Excursion are offered on a first come first served basis, in every port of call at no additional charge. Depending on tour timing, up to two Silver Shore Select Excursion may be taken per day. Additional shore excursions are available for purchase; standard cancellation penalties apply. Capacity is limited on all shore excursions including Silver Shore Select and guests’ first choice may or may not be available. Silversea reserves the right to cancel any shore excursions including Silver Shore Select. No credit or other compensation will be given if Silver Shore Select are cancelled or not utilised. All shore excursions including Silver Shore Select are operated by independent operators over whom Silversea has no control. Two hours of complimentary internet access per guest/ per day is available for guests booked on 2015 Mediterranean voyages in Vista or Veranda suites aboard Silver Wind, Silver Cloud and Silver Spirit. Unlimited WiFi service applies for those guests booked on 2015 Mediterranean voyages in Medallion suites and higher aboard Silver Wind and Silver suites and higher aboard Silver Cloud and Silver Spirit. Additional internet packages are available for purchase. WiFi service is not guaranteed. Silversea is not responsible if WiFi service is not available. No credit or other compensation will be provided should WiFi service not be available or should the WiFi allowance go unused. Programme subject to change.

In addition to the fare listed above, and only in some exeptional circumstances, guests are also required to purchase Silversea’s Air Charter Package for an additional charge per person. Air Charter Packages for voyages embarking and/or disembarking include Economy Class charter air service between airport/pier. Restrictions may apply. For additional information, refer to theAir Programme Terms & Conditionsor contact ourReservations teamthat is available for any further clarification.

All fares, savings, offers, itineraries and programmes are subject to change without notice. Voyage highlights, excursions and enrichment programmes are subject to change and/or cancellation without prior notice. All information contained herein is accurate and in effect at time of publication. Silversea reserves the right to correct any errors and omissions, and to cancel any offered product or service in the event of such error or omission. Additional restrictions may apply. See Terms and Conditions for complete details. Ships’ registry: Bahamas.

Ports

Learn all about the places you’ll visit on World Cruise 2016. All 51 fascinating ports are at your fingertips.

Guest Lecturers

As a traveller we seek to gain more knowledge, more tolerance and more understanding of the worlds we sail to. That is why a stimulating program of enrichment is a fundamental component of World Cruise 2016. Your days at sea will be filled with a cast of guest hosts from eminent lecturers and wine experts to renowned chefs, certified ACBL instructors, and our ever-popular L’École des Chefs by Relais & Châteaux.

Land Adventures

Want to climb to the “Lost City” of Machu Picchu? Glimpse “Old Asia” in the fairytale kingdom of Laos? Follow the exotic “Road to Mandalay” in Myanmar? Or visit the ancient Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, one of the most isolated countries in the world? Venetian World Odyssey includes an exciting array of mid-cruise overland journeys to further your explorations ashore.

Benefits

Luxurious benefits that ensure you travel in comfort and that add an array of enriching cultural events make this voyage-of-a-lifetime an even more extraordinary experience.

An impressive array of value-added benefits and exclusive cultural events … all designed to make the luxury Venetian World Odyssey 2016 world cruise truly a voyage of a lifetime.

THE BENEFITS OF A FULL WORLD CRUISE:

Business Class air is available from select US/Canadian air gateways for guests who book in the US office.
Business Class air is available from select UK air gateways for guests who book in the UK office.
Business Class air is available from select German/Scandinavian gateways for guest who book in the EU office.